Pysanky Eggs Anyone?

April 16, 2003|By Kris Slagel

These colorful Easter eggs, known as pysanky, have been handed down through generations of the Ukrainian people.

More than 2,000 years ago, before the time of Christ, people decorated eggs believing that great powers were embodied within the egg. The eggs symbolized the release of the earth from the shackles of winter and the coming of spring with its promise of new hope, new life, and prosperity.

Legend has it that as long as pysanky are decorated, goodness will prevail over evil throughout the world. These Easter eggs symbolize the Resurrection and a promise of eternal life.

Pysanky are not made to be eaten. They are exchanged and/or given as gifts and used as decorations all year-round.